Power Steering Problems

Are you having power steering problems with your car?  All vehicles with power steering only need a small amount of effort on our part to turn the wheel if everything is working properly.  Each power steering system is made up of the power steering pump, valves, gears and power steering fluid, that all work together to ensure that you can steer your car quickly and easily.  Power steering pumps can develop large leaks or begin to fail just from every day wear and tear and if left alone can cause serious power steering problems.  Also the power steering fluid can become dirty and starts to break down by the heat generated in the gears.  This can lead to increased wear in the pumps, valves and gears and eventually will lead to expensive repairs.   Here are a few signs to watch out for:

Sluggish or stiff steering.  Stiff steering in cold temperatures or when turning at slow speeds can be a sign of a power steering problem.

Squeals or squeaks–  A squealing sound when you’re turning, or driving slowly can be a sign of power steering problems.

Chattering in the steering system– A chattering or squeaking noise from under the hood when you first start your car can be a sign of power steering problems.

If you have noticed any of these symptoms recently, we recommend bringing your car in for a power steering system service.  This is a preventative service that is done to flush the power steering system and remove sludge and contaminants from the entire system, including the pump, rack and pinion, and lines.  Once the old fluid is flushed, new power steering fluid is added.  The new fluid performs in subzero temperatures and optimizes cold weather performance and reduces squealing and hard or inconsistent turning.  As I said before, this is a preventative service.  A preventative service only benefits us if we use it before there is serious damage done!  If you have had any of these symptoms for an extended length of time, it is very possible that your vehicle already has serious power steering problems.  So don’t wait any longer, give us a call at (303) 691-2760 or bring your car into the shop.